How Volunteering Transformed Hiba’s World
When Hiba first heard about the Global Volunteer program offered by AIESEC, she was intrigued but very hesitant. At 22, having never left her hometown of Amman, the idea of spending six weeks alone volunteering in Ahmedabad, India, was exciting and intimidating. However, driven by a desire for growth and adventure, Hiba chose to step out of her comfort zone & what awaited her was a transformative journey she never imagined possible.
landing in India, Hiba was immediately stunned by the bustling streets, vibrant colors, and a culture vastly different from her own. Her project involved working at a local NGO that supported education initiatives for underprivileged children. Initially, adapting was challenging; the language barriers, spicy food, crowded roads, and humid climate tested her resilience daily.
Yet, despite initial discomfort, Hiba found comfort and joy within the walls of the small, lively classroom where she taught English & arts. Each morning, she was greeted by excited students whose bright eyes and eager smiles erased all barriers.
Priya is the child that will impact Hiba differently. At first reserved and quiet, Priya struggled with confidence. Recognizing herself in Priya’s hesitancy, Hiba dedicated extra time after school hours, working closely to build her self-esteem through interactive lessons, games, and storytelling.
As weeks passed, Hiba witnessed Priya's Huge transformation. She blossomed into a confident, articulate student who no longer hesitated to raise her hand or share her thoughts. Witnessing this change, Hiba experienced her own internal shift, she realized the profound power of one individual who cares. Teaching had become more than a task; it was a shared journey of empowerment and growth.
Outside the classroom, Hiba embraced the opportunity to dive deeply in Indian culture. She bonded with her host family, savoring home cooked meals, exploring local markets, and even mastering a few Hindi phrases. Her connections extended beyond her host home; friendships formed quickly with fellow AIESEC volunteers from around the world. The experience taught her invaluable lessons about cultural understanding, collaboration, and openness—qualities she would carry with her long after returning home.
When the time came to leave India, Hiba found herself not only saying goodbye to her students and friends but also to the person she used to be. The hesitant, uncertain young woman who arrived six weeks earlier had transformed into a confident individual with a deeper sense of purpose and global perspective.
Reflecting back in Amman, Hiba shares passionately, “I thought I was going to India to teach, but instead I learned so much more about myself, life, and the kind of impact I can make in the world.”
Through AIESEC’s Global Volunteer program, Hiba discovered the extraordinary power of stepping into the unknown. Her journey didn’t just change her, t reshaped her very core, empowering her to continue making a difference wherever life takes her next.
By Husam Sawafta on Dec 10, 2024
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